Absorption: absorbed almost completely but
slowed by food. Undergoes first-pass hepatic metabolism. Distribution: bound by erythrocyte membrane. Metabolism: metabolized extensively by
erythrocytes and liver. Excretion: excreted primarily in urine; less than
4% of drug is excreted in feces. Half-1ife: about 30 to 45 minutes.
Route
Onset
Peak
Duration
P.O.
Unknown
3-4 hr
Unknown
Pharmacodynamics
Chemical effect: unknown; thought to increase
RBC flexibility and lower blood viscosity.
Drug-drug.Anticoagulants: increased
anticoagulant effect. Adjust anticoagulant dosage as
ordered. Antihypertensives: increased hypotensive effect. Dosage
adjustments may be necessary.
Drug-lifestyle. Smoking. vasoconstriction may result.
Advise patient to avoid smoking, it may worsen his condition.
Contraindications and
precautions
Contraindicated in patients who are intolerant to
methyixanthines, such as caffeine and theophylline, and in those
with recent cerebral or retinal hemorrhage.
Drug is not recommended for use in breast-feeding women.
Use cautiously in pregnant women.
Safety of drug has not been established in children.
NURSING CONSIDERATIONS
Assessment
Assess patient’s condition before therapy and regularly
thereafter.
Be alert for adverse reactions and drug interactions.
Be aware that elderly patients may be more sensitive to
drug’s effects.
Monitor patient’s hydration status if adverse GI
reactions.
Evaluate patient’s and family’s knowledge of drug
therapy.
Nursing diagnoses
Altered peripheral tissue perfusion related to condition
Risk for fluid volume deficit related to drug-induced adverse
GI reactions
Knowledge deficit related to drug therapy
Planning and implementation
Know that drug is useful in patients who are not good
surgical candidates.
Report adverse reactions to doctor; dosage may need to be
reduced.
Patient teaching
Advise patient to take with meals to minimize GI upset.
Instruct patient to swallow drug whole, without breaking,
crushing, or chewing.
Tell patient to report adverse GI or CNS reactions.
Advise patient to avoid smoking because nicotine causes
vasoconstriction than can worsen his condition.
Tell patient not to discontinue drug during first 8 weeks of
therapy unless directed by doctor.
